Virgil is a Wanted Man

One of the hottest properties within the English market during this transfer window is Southampton’s Virgil Van Dijk. Apparently around 50 million is the asking price and even then the south coast clubs stance is he not for sale, though we all know every player has his price. Van Dijk has shown he is a silky, strong and adaptable centre half who can read the game superbly. He would be an outstanding addition to any back line in the Premier League.

A STEAL OF A DEAL

When he joined the Saints after two outstanding seasons at Scottish giants Celtic in the summer transfer window of 2015, the 13m fee was seen as a bit prohibitive and a lot of the so called bigger clubs were put off by this price. They probably thought let’s see how he gets on in a far more competitive league, as let’s be honest the Scottish Premier League is not as much of a test nowadays, than gamble on him at that cost. More fool them and massive credit to the people at Southampton, because the outlay to get him now as mentioned above is going to have to be a lot more than 13m.

RUNNERS AND RIDERS

So whose in the running? Manchester City are desperate for a top notch centre back to partner John Stones, especially as Vincent Kompany is now seemingly a walking injury. Liverpool are potentially in the market for a centre back as that has been their achilles heel for a number of seasons. Everton, managed by the man who brought him to English football, Ronald Koeman are also reportedly very interested and they do have the funds to launch a bid under new part-owner Farhad Moshiri. One things for sure there are plenty of teams home and abroad that would love the Dutchman leading their defence.

STICK OR TWIST FOR CLUB AND PLAYER

So will he leave in this window? To be honest it is unlikely, especially with the added complication of an ankle injury he picked up against Leicester, but the outcome of Southampton’s semi-final against Liverpool in the EFL Cup may be crucial. They lead 1-0 from the first leg and if they survive the onslaught to come at Anfield in the second leg and make the final, I think he will stay as a trip to Wembley will beckon. If they crash out there will still be a few days left of the transfer window for a bids to be made and potentially accepted and as previously stated every player has their price and a 50 million deal, under those circumstances, instead of waiting until the summer may be too big an opportunity to turn down.